Dark Witch by Nora Roberts

September 12, 2014 By Leave a Comment

WITCH
Dark Witch by Nora Roberts
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Full Length (342 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Cholla

With indifferent parents, Iona Sheehan grew up craving devotion and acceptance. From her maternal grandmother, she learned where to find both: a land of lush forests, dazzling lakes, and centuries-old legends.

Ireland.

County Mayo, to be exact. Where her ancestors’ blood and magic have flowed through generations—and where her destiny awaits.

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When Iona lands a job at the local stables, she meets the owner, Boyle McGrath. Cowboy, pirate, wild tribal horseman, he’s three of her biggest fantasy weaknesses all in one big, bold package.

Iona realizes that here she can make a home for herself—and live her life as she wants, even if that means falling head over heels for Boyle. But nothing is as it seems. An ancient evil has wound its way around Iona’s family tree and must be defeated. Family and friends will fight with each other and for each other to keep the promise of hope—and love—alive…

It’s the opportunity of a lifetime and Iona Sheehan has made it happen. All she has ever wanted to do is go to Ireland and find her roots… and learn more about the witch that she is. What she isn’t prepared for, however, is the dark force lying in wait for the return of the three. Can she and her two newfound cousins defeat this ancient evil and bring peace to their family?

Iona Sheehan is quite a character. Exuberant, young, and eager, she makes me laugh out loud throughout the book. Her love of horses and family is very endearing and sweet. I loved the way she embraced her heritage – lurking evil force or not – and dove in head first in order to be ready in time to face off with Cabhan with her cousins.

Boyle McGrath is the embodiment of all I’ve ever expected an Irishman to be. He’s surly, he’s stubborn, and he’s one hundred and ten percent lovable. His gruff reluctance to give in to his emotions is adorable and amusing because we know that Iona will find a way to worm her way into his heart, right? Once she does, they become the closest thing to a perfect couple. They don’t always agree or get along, but they find a way to stick it out in the end.

In addition to the main couple, you are treated to an entertaining cast of characters. Branna and Conner, Iona’s cousins, are like night and day, and yet so much alike sometimes that it’s scary. Maera and Fin, co-workers of Iona’s and friends of the cousins, only add humor, friendship, and love to the mix. I’d love to sit in on a night with this group, whether in Branna’s home or at the local pub, either way you know you’d be in for a night you wouldn’t forget.

Set in picturesque Ireland, a place I’ve dreamed of visiting, the story takes off from the very first page, whisking you off on adventure and into a romance you can’t help but root for. With its rich storytelling, loveable characters, and intense plot, I had a hard time putting this one down. For my first Nora Roberts novel, it was a giant win.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Guarded by Mary Behre

August 19, 2014 By 2 Comments

GUARDED
Guarded by Mary Behre
Publisher: Berkley Sensastion
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Paranormal, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (293 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

She’s given up on finding love…

Veterinarian Shelley Morgan has always preferred animals to humans, and not simply because she can communicate with them psychically. Unlike most people she’s known, animals have never broken her heart. But after six months in her new town, some of her favorite four-legged companions begin disappearing from the local zoo. Determined to track down the animals and their thief, the telepathic vet decides to investigate, unknowingly delving into a deadly mystery…

He’s ready to make her heart go wild…

Although his bear-like physique has been an advantage in the Tidewater Police Department, Dev Jones’s size often intimidates people. Only Shelley has seen past his massive build to the intelligent man inside, but that was years ago. So when she contacts him requesting his help to solve a series of animal kidnappings, he’s eager to reconnect with her. But the thefts escalate to murder and all the evidence points to Shelley as the killer, and Dev faces a devastating choice: forsake his career or risk losing the woman he’s grown to love…

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Guarded picks up where Spirited left off – with another sister discovered. The Scott sisters have some unique paranormal gifts. Although these types of gifts have been used before in other romances, Ms. Behre has placed her own imaginative and creative mark on them. This time around it’s being able to speak to animals and it comes with all the mayhem and unique crises that can arise from it. It made perfect sense to me that Shelley was a veterinarian.

Even though I didn’t rate this story quite as high as the first book, which continues to blow my mind when I remember how cool it was, Guarded is still a high recommend. I think I was confused quite a few times because there was SO much action and frenetic responses to the drama and suspense mixed in with a rather large cast of characters, I found myself lost on just who was who speaking to whom and doing what. It caused me to reread parts just to get it straight.

There is no doubt in my mind that readers who enjoyed Spirited are going to be equally enthralled with Ms. Behre’s latest mystery. There are red herrings and villains who they’ll figure out but it’s the one that remains a true mystery until the big reveal that could leave them as amazed as I was. The intricate web of revenge the author wove is truly mind boggling because now that I know the end results, I remembered certain ‘meaningful’ moments that actually had a more profound impact than what I initially read. Being able to weave those kinds of details in is talented writing.

Part of a diabolical mystery is the fact of casualties. I almost stopped reading this book because of one certain death. The author had introduced a character that she imbued with enough heart, dreams and the feelings of strong emotion that when the secondary character met a bad end, I was heartbroken. It affected me greatly. You do know what that means, right? Ms. Behre did her job. If the character was a one dimensional throwaway person, I wouldn’t have cared. I would have shrugged and say, “Okay, that’s just to show how far the bad guy will go,” and that would have been that. Instead, I was so shocked I almost couldn’t go on. But of course, I did … a couple of weeks later, but I did restart reading. I’m very glad I did. The death was not in vain and for that I applaud the author. From that point on, the action and pace picked up even more and I never stopped reading until the end of the epilogue. Guarded is a mind bending roller coaster of a read.

Remember earlier I said that I was confused because of too many characters on scene? Wait until you get a load of Ryan and Ian. There was something about those guys that intrigued my ‘yummy meter’. I cracked up when a monkey took something away and their reaction to the zoo situation was priceless. They are two secondary characters that would make ideal heroes in future books. I hope they do. I liked meeting them, even if so briefly and during so crazy a pace. Then, there is Seth and Jules from Spirited, and the sheriff and other town characters and talking animals and the cutest ferret I’ve ever read about. It’s quite the menagerie but every single person or animal, or ghost, played a role that was pivotal, sentimental, sweet or surprising, not to mention fascinating.

Here is where I must thank the author profusely. She made her male characters smart. And I mean awesome smart, quick on the uptake, it’s a clue and they GOT IT, smart. I knew what happened to Shelley. I understood it immediately but she brushed it off. I was yelling at her, “No! Don’t just disregard this, it’s a clue, you have a clue!” But of course, she can’t see what a reader can see. But the guys did. I was so happy that I wanted to hug all of them. As it was, I did a happy chair dance. Because one was a marine, the other a cop and the other, I think a P.I., the author had them living up to their professions. I am impressed. They were heroes!

There is so much more to talk about but I have to reign myself in. Guarded is definitely a standalone story, it has a sweet happy ever after, it has some hot and sexy exchanges between Shelley and Dev, and it ends with a perfect hook. Of course it won’t come as a surprise that they get a lead on Shelley and Jule’s final sister but it’s the other discovery they made in this novel that indicates that this may not be the end after all. And that’s a wonderful thing. This really has been an amazing series so far and I highly recommend reading both Guarded and Spirited because they are both excellent reads. True keepers because their stories are so chock full of details and dialogue, I’m sure I missed something the first time around. This is worth re-reading, guaranteed.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Ghost Seer by Robin D. Owens

July 9, 2014 By Leave a Comment

SEER
Ghost Seer by Robin D. Owens
Publisher: Berkley Sensation, New York
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (303 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

There’s just something about Clare. Apart from the ghosts……

When her eccentric aunt passes away, no-nonsense accountant Clare Cermac inherits more than just a small fortune. She receives the gift of communicating with ghosts. While Clare may not believe in spirits, it’s hard to overlook the shadowy talking dog appearing on her bed or spectral cowboys tipping their hats to her in the streets of Denver. And when she locks eyes with sexy—and living—Zach Slade, there’s certainly no ignoring him either.

A former deputy sheriff, Zach is leaving a painful past behind in Montana for a new life in Denver as a private investigator, a job that has him crossing paths with beautiful Clare. Not that she minds. After the restless ghost of a Wild West gunman demands her assistance, Clare finds herself needing Zach more and more—and not just for help.

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Ghost Seer is the first book in her new series and it’s quite a deviation from what I’m used to. That’s a good thing. This storyline is unique, refreshing and completely fascinating. What I also like is the author’s use of an actual historical character. For readers who like “what if” scenarios, this is a treat.

Clare is the main focus of the story as it follows her during a major transition. She goes from being a confident and knowledgeable accountant and into a world of the supernatural; a world she wants nothing to do with. However, she doesn’t have much of a choice. This novel follows the progression of her denial about the paranormal and shifts towards resigned, and although not totally 100%, begrudging acceptance. The journey alternates between being amazing, funny, heartfelt and bizarre. Poor Clare has a lot of changes to make in her life, one of which is believing in her new talents and her ghostly doggie sidekick, Enzo. He’s a bit mysterious too.

Then comes Zach. A man with his own inner conflicts and roiling emotions, he is a wonderful counterpoint to Clare. I liked his depiction of strength, both in mind and will and mostly his body. For what doesn’t work as well as it used to, he’s rather stubborn and is still going through the grieving process. Not that he’d admit to that. He’s got his manly pride after all. But I loved how the author had him dealing with the revelations about Clare’s talent. It’s very human, understandable and lent itself to some great plot conflicts. I liked watching his slow progression from disbelief to belief, from wanting to run away to support and from just liking Clare to maybe wanting a future. It’s a hard journey for him but it’s well worth it. Clare made it worth it and Zach was wonderful with her.

In addition to the two personal conflicts, there are two main external conflicts that contributed significant amounts of drama, suspense, intrigue, action, surprises and an amazing degree of empathy, to the novel. One is integral to Clare’s new talent and the other is more in line with Zach’s expertise. But the really bad villain still caught me by surprise. Ms. Owens gave hints that things weren’t quite right but in no way could I have guessed just how ‘not right’ they would turn out to be. That was a gripping piece of writing.

The only thing I noticed that made me raise an eyebrow was the overuse of a few words throughout the book. I’m not sure if that was accidental or on purpose but it was done enough to notice. It might not bother other readers but it did bother me. Not enough to make me stop liking the book, far from it. I enjoyed Ghost Seer tremendously. I just observe those types of things and I’m compelled to mention them.

For the start of a new series, Ghost Seer is a wonderful springboard. It tackled the world building head on without falling into the trap of an info dump. Everything that was revealed was done in due course of telling Clare’s tale of becoming a ghost seer and the complications that it introduces to her life. The how of Clare and Zach’s getting together was delightful and their blossoming romance is a treasure trove of discovery. Enzo, the ghost puppy, is intriguing because he is more than the wag of his tail. He’s a wonderfully creative character. In fact, the whole premise is creative and engrossing. It’s a meaty story on so many levels that I know this review isn’t doing it justice. For fans of Ms. Owens, they know her quality of writing and I can assure them that the tradition of excellence in storytelling continues. This is also a great book for a new reader to discover the wonderful talent of Ms. Owens. Ghost Seer is a sure pleaser and a must read for new and old fans alike. It’s not just really good, it’s really cool and I encourage readers to check it out. It’s worth it.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Theirs to Cherish by Shayla Black

April 21, 2014 By Leave a Comment

CHERISH
Theirs to Cherish by Shayla Black
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Contemporary, Mystery/Suspense
Length; Full Length (400 pgs)
Other: M/F, M/F/M, Menage, BDSM, Spanking
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

The perfect place for a woman on the run to disappear…

Accused of a horrific murder she didn’t commit, former heiress Callie Ward has been a fugitive since she was sixteen—until she found the perfect hideout, Club Dominion. The only problem is she’s fallen for the club’s Master, Mitchell Thorpe, who keeps her at arm’s length. Little does she know that his reasons for not getting involved have everything to do with his wounded heart…and his consuming desire for her.

To live out her wildest fantasies…

Enter Sean Kirkpatrick, a Dom who’s recently come to Dominion and taken a pointed interest in Callie. Hoping to make Thorpe jealous, she submits to Sean one shuddering sigh at a time. It isn’t long before she realizes she’s falling for him too. But the tender lover who’s slowly seducing her body and earning her trust isn’t who he claims…

And to fall in love.
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When emotions collide and truths are exposed, Sean is willing to risk all to keep Callie from slipping through his fingers. But he’s not the only man looking to stake a claim. Now Callie is torn between Sean and Thorpe, and though she’s unsure whom she can trust, she’ll have to surrender her body and soul to both—if she wants to elude a killer…

Crime, death and a lot of hot sex! Have I got your attention? Then you should read Theirs to Cherish.

This isn’t my first foray into the world of Shayla Black. I’ve read her other works, but not in this series. That didn’t detract from my enjoyment with this book. It sizzles with sexual tension and the writing crackles. I needed to know what would happen next.

Like I said, I haven’t read the others in this series, but I didn’t think that was a problem. The characters were described well enough and the story solid enough for me to keep up. That said, there were moments I skimmed through pages, needing more action. The story isn’t boring, but the pacing could’ve been ramped up a bit.

So who are the players? Thorpe is the head Dom of Club Domination. He’s a tough guy and isn’t terribly easy to understand. I got that he was uber alpha, but there were moments I wished he’d have cracked a bit. He’s got a back story I won’t divulge and it’s heady. It’s hardened him. I liked that he was crusted over, but I had a very hard time liking him. He came across, as the heroine says, like a caveman.

Then there’s Sean. He’s the Dom Callie ends up with at the end of the previous book. He’s multi-dimensional, but also hard to love. I wanted to like him earlier on and I’m glad I kept reading to find out his secrets. The one thing that drove me crazy about him and Thorpe was the drive. I liked that they had to learn to get along, but the conversation was stilted in spots and didn’t seem terribly masculine. Do guys really talk about their emotions that much?

Callie is a conundrum, too. She’s not just a bratty sub – and she’s very bratty – she’s also a on the run heiress. I get this is fiction and she’s going to be a tad larger than life, but I had a hard time connecting with her. Many times I thought she would zig and instead she zagged. Her dialogue comes across bubbly at times and whiny at others. I really wanted to like her and root for her, but I ended up putting the book down more often than not.

Now don’t get me wrong. I didn’t dislike this book. There were hot scenes throughout. The sex sizzles and you’ll want something cold by the time the book is over and the mystery itself was strong.

If you want a menage story with a BDSM twist and mystery to boot, then this might be the book for you.

Filed Under: Erotic Romance, Mystery/Suspense, Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Happy Medium by Meg Benjamin

February 6, 2014 By 3 Comments

Cover_HappyMedium

Happy Medium by Meg Benjamin
Publisher: Berkeley
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Full (299 pgs)
Heat: Hot
Rated: 4.5 stars
Review by Poppy

Love is good for the soul… unless it’s one that you’re trying to exorcise.

Ray Ramos has a problem–the King William District mansion he and his business partner purchased for a fast renovation needs more work than expected. Ray could use a quick infusion of cash. Enter Emma Shea, assistant to Gabrielle DeVere, the star of American Medium. Gabrielle is looking for San Antonio houses to use for her televised séances, and Ray’s fixer upper seems to fit.
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When Gabrielle does a sample séance, Ray and Emma become the target of a touchy ghost with no respect for boundaries. After Ray learns his family has a special affinity for ghosts, the two decide to investigate the haunted house. It doesn’t hurt that Emma is immediately attracted to the laconic Ray or that Ray is intrigued by the buttoned-down beauty who seems determined to hide her considerable assets behind sober business suits. But can the two of them fight off a vengeful succubus bound to the house while getting a lot closer than either of them planned?

Looking for a super sexy, fun and exciting paranormal romance?

Happy Medium is the first in this series I’ve read. It stands alone well, though I’m sure followers of the family would catch references and nuances that I may have missed. Regardless, I really enjoyed this book.

Coming into this with no knowledge of the other books, I full expected Emma to be the medium. I was quite surprised to find out that wasn’t exactly the way things were! Apparently the Ramos family has some paranormal talent, and Ray discovers his in this book as he tangles with something you don’t see all that often in a non-erotic romance… a succubus.

While the plot was interesting and well conceived, I really think the true strength of this story lies it its characters. I was so completely hooked from the first sentence. Ray’s character builds right off the bat, as does Emma’s when we meet her. I really loved them. They were interesting, real and unique. I wasn’t as big a fan of Emma’s boss, Gabrielle. She especially made me mad by continually harping on Emma’s weight. It didn’t endear her to me. Fact is, though, I was absolutely invested in all the characters and that above all is what kept me turning pages.

The chemistry between Emma and Ray is off the charts hot (as is the sex because, hello, succubus), and the plot was strong and occasionally nerve-wracking. I admit to wishing I’d read the series in order because I was completely entertained. I’ve gone back to check out what I missed and I’m definitely a new fan of Meg Benjamin.

So, if you like your paranormal stories hot, fun and exciting you should grab a copy of Happy Medium … or maybe you should just start at the beginning and read all three books straight through!

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

Spirited: A Tidewater Novel by Mary Behre

January 23, 2014 By Leave a Comment

SPIRITTED
Spirited: A Tidewater Novel by Mary Behre
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (294 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

She’s running from who she is…

All Jules Scott wants is to live a normal, quiet life—preferably one that doesn’t include ghosts. Jules’s talent for communicating with the dead has brought her nothing but trouble. Despite her best efforts, needy spirits always find her and draw her into their otherworldly drama. When one implicates her in a series of deadly crimes, she may need to entrust her secrets to the person least likely to believe her…

He’ll do whatever it takes to catch her.

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Ever read a book that was so suspenseful it left you shivery, so exciting that it left you hyperventilating? That can partly describe this amazing story called Spirited. One thing is for sure, I was blown away. Ms. Behre has an amazing capacity to draw in a reader with her characters and deliver an intensely entertaining and eye-popping read. I am in awe.

Spirited is the first book I’ve ever read by this author but I was so impressed by my reading experience, I will not only look forward to the next book in the series, Guarded but I’m going be looking for any previous books. If this is a sample of her usual style, I want more. Understand something. I don’t think I’ve had a book take over me like the way this has done in a LONG time. Yes, I’ve enjoyed books, some immensely so, but to have a physical effect on my breathing and dry eyes from trying not to blink so I won’t miss a second of the action, the jumpy feeling of wanting to know what happens next yet maybe afraid of finding out, but the burning obsession of having to know – to do all that to me? Now that is writing talent.

There are a lot of stories out there about so called ‘ghost whisperers’ and psychics and whatnot, but the author took a common paranormal theme and made it her own. I adored how she lead Jules, the heroine, from ignoring her gift to embracing it and using it to perform a miracle. That growth of personal acceptance was phenomenal. Ms. Behre imbued her characters with warmth, humor, honor, and distinct and interesting personalities. Every single person, dead or alive, played a key role in helping solve a mystery that seemed to get messier, more mysterious and intriguing as each chapter lead Jules to find her true love while solving the crime.

Finding true love while keeping a secret is hard. Keeping that secret when your true love might end up being a cop is almost a recipe for disaster. Seth is the hero and he really defines the word because he has some wonderful, romantic qualities. He’s not perfect and he makes mistakes but he does a lot of things right and one of those is falling in love with the heroine. The journey is bumpy and is never ever boring. I got the biggest laughs right in the beginning when they first met. When Jules got an eyeful of Seth’s sleeping attire I could not contain my mirth. That. Was. Hysterical! And little zingers kept popping up here and there throughout the story so it was a nice touch. Clever, actually.

Let’s talk sensuality. The pages steamed from it. I adore a story with a sexy build up. The teases, the glimpses of heat, the yearning, the ‘almost’ moments that bring that passion to a fever pitch only to have life or a cold wind blow to pop the moment – that is the kind of romantic tale that makes reading fun. The anticipation builds not just for the characters but for the reader as well. Jules and Seth weren’t the only ones happy when they finally did the deed. It was great!

Another thing that was powerful was the suspense of solving a mystery. The clues, the deaths, the race against the clock – it was gripping. Here’s another thing about Spirited that I appreciated – the writing style. Every chapter ended with a plot twist, a cliff hanger, a surprise reveal, just something that hooked me and kept me wanting to know what happens next, who was going to learn what and would Jules ever trust Seth enough to tell him her big secret? How was that going to look like? Sound like? How was he going to take it? And is the good guy really a good guy? Oh man, there was one scene when I almost came off of my chair because I thought Jules had just trusted the wrong guy. It’s writing like that which impresses me no end and Ms. Behre makes it look so easy.

Spirited is a must read book for fans of romantic suspense. I can’t come up with one complaint or wish that something could have been done different. I consider it one of the most perfect books I’ve read in a long time. Its characters, dialogue, plot, editing, method of delivery and mastery of descriptions were everything I could wish for in any book, not just a romance. For readers willing to give this book a try, leave yourself plenty of time to read it because if you’re like me, you might not want to put it down. This is the kind of book that if I could drive and read at the same time, or walk and read or work and read , this is the book that I’d do it with. I took a chance on a new author and I consider it one of the best decisions I’ve made in a long time. I’m a happy reader.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Visions of Heat by Nalini Singh

November 7, 2013 By Leave a Comment

HEAT
Visions of Heat by Nalini Singh
Psy-Changeling #2
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Genre: Paranormal, Suspense/Mystery, Contemporary
Length: Full Length (340 pgs)
Other: M/F
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Cactus

Hailed as a major new talent in paranormal romance, Nalini Singh takes us deeper into the world of the Psy and the changelings in her latest extraordinary novel, where a gifted woman sees passion in her future – a passion that is absolutely forbidden by her kind…
Used to cold silence, Faith NightStar is suddenly being tormented by dark visions of blood and murder. A bad sign for anyone, but worse for Faith, an F-Psy with the highly sought after ability to predict the future. Then the visions show her something even more dangerous – aching need…exquisite pleasure. But so powerful is her sight, so fragile the state of her mind, that the very emotions she yearns to embrace could be the end of her.

Changeling Vaughn D’Angelo can take the form of either man or jaguar, but it is his animal side that is overwhelmingly drawn to Faith. The jaguar’s instinct is to claim this woman it finds so utterly fascinating and the man has no argument. But while Vaughn craves sensation and hungers to pleasure Faith in every way, desire is a danger that could snap the last threads of her sanity. And there are Psy who need Faith’s sight for their own purposes. They must keep her silenced – and keep her from Vaughn.

Filitra is a generic version and it viagra online free was proved as well. As a result of this the person either fails to attain erection or get the soft erection that is bad and person feels embarrassed due to this.You can combat usually in stock purchase cialis online the problem of impotence with the help of medicines like Claritin-D and Nasacort AQ. While a small amount of anti-nutrients would not likely cause a problem, the amount of soy that you are unknowingly consuming is extremely free samples levitra high. Oral medicines for ED treatments fall into the category of medications called PDE-5, which works by improving blood flow in the penile http://mouthsofthesouth.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/MOTS-07.9.16-Parker.pdf cialis prices region and causing hard rock erection. Embracing the future is the toughest thing a foreseer can do. Faith Nightstar is a very powerful foresight talent within the Psy people. She lives in near total isolation to contain the known instability of her abilities. After all, everyone knows foreseers eventually go mad. She never counted on seeing murders and dark deeds in her mind. Worried she’s going insane early; Faith seeks out the only Psy she thinks can help – Sascha Duncan. But Sascha is part of the changeling leopard group and they hate the Psy. A powerful lieutenant, Vaughn D’Angelo, may be attracted to Faith but he’s determined not to let any Psy harm his people. A delicate balance of trust and need are necessary as they hunt down a serial killer.

Visions of Heat is the second book in the Psy-Changeling series by Nalini Singh. Although you could read this one on it’s own, I’d recommend reading the series in order to fully appreciate the various relationships and connections. Not to mention all the background and world building. The second book builds on the foundation and information offered in the first book. That said, I read the books back-to-back and I was definitely more annoyed with this book because of that. The two books are so similar it set my teeth on edge. Some readers definitely look for a familiar and comfortable formula with books and they may love that the second book so closely resembles with the first with a few obvious differences. For me, this hurt my enjoyment.

The book simply feels like a carbon copy of the first story. Here the gorgeous, but fragile Psy is Faith and her dominant, overbearing, highly sexual mate is Vaughn, a jaguar in a leopard clan. The two are immediately attracted to each other but must overcome the changeling’s hatred of all things Psy and Faith’s emotions slowly emerging. At the same time, there is yet another Psy serial killer that they must stop and Faith (of course) has a unique connection to the murders. These elements aren’t bad on their own and even together they can still make for an entertaining erotic romance for the right reader. I found myself frustrated by the obvious similarities when I wanted something more unique to each couple.

The writing is decent though I find it at times overly melodramatic and hyperbolic. There are also many overused phrases such as “nightsky eyes.” I wish the author had come up with a different descriptor, especially since the same phrase was definitely overused in the first book too. Here reading one book so close to the other easily affected my view and enjoyment of them both. I also got frustrated with the continual painting of the entire Psy clan as evil and wrong. There is no nuance or subtly to the characters, they’re very one dimensional and good or bad. There’s no in between.

What I did like about the book was its ease. I listened to it, rather than reading it, and found the narrator had a pleasant voice and was easy to listen to. The story was engaging enough to keep my attention but not complicated or intricate to need a lot of effort. There are a lot of sex scenes and a main focus of the story is the erotic romance. Faith slowly experiences an awakening of her emotions and needs – all Psy are virgins of course, but never have a bad first time – and Vaughn is the romantic jaguar that loves her to a ridiculous amount and will never let her go. The serial killer subplot keeps the players moving around and the book progressing forward while giving more insight into the secondary characters that will eventually have their own books.

While I didn’t love either this one or the first one in the series, it’s an easy series to read/listen to. It’s not great for me and it’s one I’ll need a lot of space between books to appreciate it more but it has the elements of popular series. It has a ton of romance and sex and those are the main focus with an action subplot to keep things interesting. I’d recommend it for fans that like more formula books and series.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Slave to Sensation by Nalini Singh

November 6, 2013 By 1 Comment

SLAVE
Slave to Sensation by Nalini Singh
Psy-Changeling #1
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Genre: Paranormal, Mystery/Suspense, Contemporary
Length: Full Length (340 pgs)
Other: M/F
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Cactus

In a world that denies emotions, where the ruling Psy punish any sign of desire, Sascha Duncan must conceal the feelings that brand her as flawed. To reveal them would be to sentence herself to the horror of “rehabilitation” – the complete psychic erasure of everything she ever was…

Penile erection ends when the cute-n-tiny.com cialis cost muscles contract and the blood comes from heart. You can use this herbal without any cute-n-tiny.com viagra no prescription fear of side effects. All these factors are directly and indirectly contributory to better erection and sexual performance. viagra in uk Glycation is an inflammatory biochemical process that takes place when generic cialis cipla the tiny arteries leading to the penile organ dilate. Both human and animal, Lucas Hunter is a changeling hungry for the very sensations the Psy disdain. After centuries of uneasy coexistence, these two races are now on the verge of war over the brutal murders of several changeling women. Lucas is determined to find the Psy killer who butchered his packmate, and Sascha is his ticket into their closely guarded society. But he soon discovers that this ice-cold Psy is very capable of passion – and that the animal in him is fascinated by her. Caught between their conflicting worlds, Lucas and Sascha must remain bound to their identities – or sacrifice everything for a taste of darkest temptation…

Sometimes the thing you fear the most can be your saving grace. Sascha Duncan is afraid her mind is deteriorating and she’s on the brink of going mad. She’s doing everything she can to hide the fact from her powerful mother. To that end Sascha agrees to spy on a local changeling band of leopards in hopes for information. What she learns there may change her life forever. Lucas is the head of the Dark River leopard pack and he wants information from Sascha as well. Changeling women have been kidnapped and murdered and he wants answers. Together the two produce enough heat for an inferno but think they’re on the opposite side.

Slave to Sensation is the first book in the wildly popular Psy-Changeling series by Nalini Singh. I decided to read it based on a recommendation from another series I loved. Slave to Sensation has all the elements to make a very popular book and series, but I personally didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would. I liked it and felt it was fine but it didn’t resonate and connect with me the way it has with other readers, judging by how many times it’s been recommended to me. That said, I can see why it’s so popular and I’ll try to offer my own reactions balanced by what I instinctively can tell may work for other people.

To start the plot is basic but with enough interest to really draw readers in. I found it too basic and predictable myself but it has all the elements to balance out the heavy romance aspect. First the characters are from different races that hate each other. Sascha is a Psy, a race of mentally talented people that eschew all emotion. Very borg like but if each borg could think and act independently while still being connected. Or for those non-science fiction fans, like a beehive or an ant colony. She is actually starting to feel emotions and it makes her uneasy and frightened. She’s of course gorgeous, brilliant, kind, self-sacrificing, sensual, strong, and basically has no flaws. This bugged me as I like some more depth and dimension to my characters but it wasn’t so out of control that I hated her.

Lucas as a contrast is your very typical alpha male. Totally in control at all times, completely and utterly dominant, often irrationally so; frequently over protective forcing Sascha to prove her strength and ability despite his desire to keep her safe. He’s also madly in love with Sascha, his one true love that he’ll never let go and never live without. So there’s definitely some major romance and true love going on from the start with a heavy, heavy dose of erotica. The plentiful sex scenes are explicit. Here I quickly got bored with Lucas and Sascha. While I enjoy the concept of the stereotypes, they felt like every other romance couple with their status quo. It’s romantic for sure but nothing really new.

The non-romance plot involves a Psy serial killer preying on changeling women. Lucas and Sascha must work together to identify and stop the killer. This is a decent storyline and it helps incorporate a significant amount of background on the two races and how they came to be without information dumping. The killer is easy to pick out early on, he’s the only viable suspect, but the race to save a kidnapped woman and the threat to Sascha from her own people for defecting helps carry the action and tension along. It was a decent first book but the overly familiar elements and perfect main characters kept me from really engaging and loving the series. I can see why others do though and readers’ tastes vary.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , ,

The Union Street Bakery by Mary Ellen Taylor

March 28, 2013 By 2 Comments

BAKER
The Union Street Bakery by Mary Ellen Taylor
Publisher: Berkley Trade Paperback
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (344 pgs)
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Aloe

Life can turn on a dime. It’s a common cliché, and I’d heard it often enough. People die or move away. Investments go south. Affairs end. Loved ones betray us…Stuff happens.

Daisy McCrae’s life is in tatters. She’s lost her job, broken up with her boyfriend, and has been reduced to living in the attic above her family’s store, the Union Street Bakery, while learning the business. Unfortunately, the bakery is in serious hardship. Making things worse is the constant feeling of not being a “real” McCrae since she was adopted as a child and has a less-than-perfect relationship with her two sisters.

Then a long-standing elderly customer passes away, and for some reason bequeaths Daisy a journal dating back to the 1850s, written by a slave girl named Susie. As she reads, Daisy learns more about her family—and her own heritage—than she ever dreamed. Haunted by dreams of the young Susie, who beckons Daisy to “find her,” she is compelled to look further into the past of the town and her family.
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What she finds are the answers she has longed for her entire life, and a chance to begin again with the courage and desire she thought she lost for good.

Daisy is a bit embarrassed to be moving back home at this point in her life. She had a very good job, a fiancé and a life she loved. And somehow she lost it all…

When the story began, I thought it was a tale about being downsized and returning to your roots. The author makes it into a larger story by making her main character an abandoned child. She’s been adopted by a good family, doesn’t care what happened to her mother, and thinks she’s fine on her own. But not all her ghosts have been laid yet.

There are family conflicts as well as ghosts and a past all waiting in line to teach Daisy about life. If that wasn’t enough to make a good story, her ex-fiancé moves to town and starts a bike shop. Trying to save a failing business, deal with some family problems in the shop and avoiding her ex keeps her almost overwhelmed. Then a little old woman leaves her a diary from long ago upon her death, and a door to the past opens up; that ghost she sees is actually a relative from the past. Another blast from the past is a letter from her mother. You know, the one who abandoned her at three years old? I worried that Daisy was going to go off the deep end before she got her personal demons settled. How do you ever accept that your mother rejected you?

This author does an excellent job of showing how important a family can be and who your real family is. Ms. Taylor also demonstrates how something from long ago can still be influencing your current life. She makes you care not only about Daisy but about all the family and friends involved. More than anything, this is the story of Daisy finally accepting how life is and learning how to make her own decisions about happiness. I enjoyed reading this book and walking along with Daisy as she grows. Why don’t you get a copy and settle in a comfortable chair with a cup of tea or coffee and start reading? You might also want a pastry. They are running a bakery in this story and it made me drool. There are recipes at the back, too.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews Tagged With: , , , ,
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